Coast Guard Auxiliary to offer cold water survival presentation

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TAHOE/TRUCKEE, Calif. — The Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 113-11-01 will present Cold Water Boot Camp to the students and faculty of Truckee High School, twice during the day for students and faculty and once in the evening for the general public. The program will include a discussion of the dangers of cold water in mountain lakes, a video demonstrating the debilitating effects of cold water immersion, a presentation by the fire department on how long it takes first responders to get on scene, a brief discussion on the types of personal flotation devices and a question and answer session.

Winter season is upon us and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is reminding boaters and others who are around the water about the risk of cold water immersion. Water temperatures are at their coldest — even a strong swimmer can experience difficulty. Research has demonstrated in water less than 59 degrees, the risk of drowning increases by 500 percent. Many drownings will occur within 6 feet of safety. When boaters fall into cold water it can take just a few minutes before their ability to swim and rescue themselves is compromised.-

About the Coast Guard

The Coast Guard was created by an act of Congress in 1790. The Coast Guard Auxiliary, America's volunteer guardians, supports the Coast Guard in nearly all of the service's missions including water safety. For membership and meeting information visit www.northtahoecgaux.com.